Converting a Check to a Money Order
You can turn a check into a money order, but the process is not direct — you cannot hand a check to a cashier and walk out with a money order in its place. Instead, you deposit or cash the check first to get the funds, then use that money to purchase a money order. The steps depend on whether you want to keep the funds in your account or get cash when ready.
A money order is a paper payment instrument issued by a bank, post office, or money transfer service. Unlike a check, which draws on your personal account, a money order is prepaid — the issuer has already received your money and guarantees payment. This makes money orders safer for the recipient because they cannot bounce.
Key Takeaways
- You must cash or deposit a check before you can buy a money order; you cannot convert one directly into the other.
- Money orders cost between $1 and $5 depending on the amount and where you buy them, with post offices typically charging less than banks or check-cashing services.
- The United States Postal Service, your bank, and Western Union all issue money orders, each with different limits and fees.
- Money orders work best when you need a may provide payment method or when the recipient does not trust personal checks.
Cashing Your Check First
Before you can buy a money order, you need cash or funds in your account. If the check is written to you, take it to the bank or credit union that issued it — that institution will cash it without charging you a fee. If you do not have an account there, you can still cash it, but the bank may charge a fee, usually $5 to $15 depending on the amount.
You can also deposit the check into your own bank account and then withdraw cash, or straightforward use your debit card to pay for the money order if the seller accepts it. Some check-cashing services will cash a check for a percentage of the amount, typically 1 to 3 percent, so compare costs before you go that route.
Where to Buy a Money Order
Three main sources issue money orders in the United States: the Postal Service, banks and credit unions, and money transfer companies like Western Union or MoneyGram.
The United States Postal Service charges the least. As of 2024, USPS money orders cost $1.45 for amounts up to $500 and $1.95 for $500.01 to $1,000. You can buy them at any post office with cash, a debit card, or a credit card. USPS money orders are widely accepted and have a maximum limit of $1,000 per order.
Your bank or credit union may issue money orders to customers for free or for a small fee, usually $3 to $10. Call ahead to ask whether they offer them and what the cost is. Banks typically limit money orders to $1,000 to $5,000 per order, depending on the institution.
Western Union and MoneyGram charge higher fees — often $5 to $15 for a standard money order — but they have more locations, including grocery stores and pharmacies. They also offer higher limits, sometimes up to $2,500 per order. Use these services only if you cannot reach a post office or bank.
Steps to Buy a Money Order After Cashing Your Check
Once you have cash or funds available, the process is straightforward. Go to your chosen issuer with the amount you want to send plus the fee. Fill out the money order form, which asks for the recipient's name and your name and address. The issuer will print the money order, take your payment, and give you a receipt.
Keep the receipt until the money order is cashed. If it is lost or stolen, the receipt is your proof of purchase and allows you to request a replacement. Write down the money order number from your receipt so you can track it if needed.
Hand the money order to the recipient or mail it. Money orders do not require a signature to cash like checks do, so they are safer to mail than personal checks. The recipient can cash it at a bank, post office, or check-cashing service.
Money Order Limits and Fees Compared
| Issuer | Maximum Per Order | Fee (as of 2024) | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS | $1,000 | $1.45–$1.95 | Post offices |
| Banks/Credit Unions | $1,000–$5,000 | Free–$10 | Bank branches |
| Western Union | $2,500 | $5–$15 | Grocery stores, pharmacies, agents |
| MoneyGram | $2,500 | $5–$15 | Grocery stores, pharmacies, agents |
When a Money Order Makes Sense
Use a money order when the recipient does not trust personal checks or when you need a may provide payment. Landlords often request money orders for security deposits or rent because they know the money is already set aside. Utility companies, government agencies, and online sellers may also prefer money orders for the same reason.
Money orders are also useful if you do not have a bank account or if you want to send cash through the mail without the risk of theft. Unlike a check, a money order cannot be altered or forged easily, and it cannot bounce because the funds are already collected.
However, if you are sending money to someone you know and trust, a personal check is usually cheaper and faster. If you need to send a large amount over $1,000, you may need to buy multiple money orders or use a wire transfer instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order with a check?
No, you must cash or deposit the check first to get funds. Once you have cash or access to your account balance, you can then purchase a money order. Some banks will let you write a check to yourself and deposit it, then when ready buy a money order with those funds in one visit.
What if I lose the money order receipt?
Contact the issuer with your money order number and proof of purchase (your receipt or bank statement). They can issue a replacement, though the process takes time — usually 30 to 60 days. This is why keeping your receipt is important until the money order is cashed.
Can the recipient refuse a money order?
Yes, though it is rare. A money order is a valid payment method, but the recipient can decline it just as they can decline a check. If they do, ask what payment method they will accept instead.
Do I need an ID to buy a money order?
Most issuers do not require ID for small money orders under $1,000. For larger amounts or multiple orders in a short time, the issuer may ask for ID to comply with federal reporting rules. Bring your driver's license or state ID to be safe.
How long does it take for a money order to clear?
Money orders are treated like cash, so they clear when ready when the recipient deposits or cashes them. There is no waiting period like there is with personal checks.